Earlier this week, we were introduced to a new concept in intellectual property law: the European 'Community Design'. The Community Design is a sort of trademark on design, and sits halfway between a trademark and a patent. I decided to investigate what, exactly, the laws and regulations around Community Designs are, and what I found was shocking. Think the USPTO is bad? Wait until you learn about the Community Design.

That's something I've thought of as well. In the recent past I've actually recommended Macintosh computers to those who seem to be suited for it. I have been hesitant to do so since Lion came out, as it is the beginning of the end of OS X (in my opinion). Now I have a concrete reason to say "stay away", but it's inevitable that when one starts discussing patents and trademarks and shady business practices, the subject's eyes gloss over and they start looking for an excuse to exit the conversation.

And that very ambivalence towards the legal situation is probably what Apple is banking on these days. They must know just how dirty and morally bankrupt their actions are, but they also know the average potential Apple customer is either oblivious or uncaring of the issues. They just want their shiny iPad or Macbook, and let the courts deal with the details.

That said, geek that I am I have a lot of geeky friends who would listen and understand. Most of those, however, already don't like Apple so it would only be another notch on their board of animosity.

So, next time I'm asked for a product recommendation and the person specifically mentions Apple, I can honestly say I don't care for the company or their products anymore. If I'm pushed for a reason, I can highlight the situation and if I have an eager audience I'll continue from there.